Lily Allen Is Pregnant

British singer Lily Allen is pregnant with her first child, her rep confirms to PEOPLE.

The 22-year-old "Smile" singer has been dating the Chemical Brothers' Ed Simons, 37, since September. "As the pregnancy is at a very, very early stage, the couple ask that you respect their privacy," her rep said in a statement. "The couple will be making no further comment but they are obviously both thrilled by the news."

Allen, whose 2006 debut album, Alright, Still, sold nearly 2 million copies, recently talked about her desire to step out of the limelight and start a family.

"Maybe I could retire at 25. I'm only going to do one more album, she told Britain's Sunday Times in November.

"It's a great job, but it doesn't leave time for what's important. Like having a family," she added. "I'd like to live in the country and have a walled garden, and chickens and pigs."

Despite the pregnancy news – first reported by Britain's The
Sun – Allen's rep said, "Lily's new album will be released as planned next year."